Back in 2012 two little needy cats called Snugs & Murphy came into my life. I was unsure quite what I might be letting myself in for, as Murphy had only ever hissed & spat at me from his little wooden house in his Holly Hedge cat pen which had a warning sign on it informing people not to put their hands or face anywhere near him due to him being upset by cattery life. Snugs on the other hand, who spent most of his time on ‘sentry duties’ protecting Murphy, (which was clearly stressful for him due to the lack of fur on his back), craved human company and was always delighted to receive visitors! One thing was certain – they both needed a forever home, but didn’t have the best CV!

After bringing them home and releasing them from their cat carriers, both went and hid under my bed. Snugs stayed there for about 5 minutes; Murphy more like 3 weeks! That was obviously going to be his ‘safe space’, so food & water was provided for him at one end of the bed and litter tray at the other. That said, he did emerge the next morning and allowed me to stroke him, which felt like the greatest honour. I soon realised what a gentle little soul he really is – he loves a cuddle and even having his tummy kissed and has the loudest purr! Snugs is super affectionate and spends his days snuggled up to Murphy and his nights nestled into me. He’s very proud of what soon became his shiny sleek tabby coat and he looks a million dollars!

10 years on and Murphy still retreats to his safe space if a stranger enters the house – but he knows when they have gone and quickly re-emerges to find one of his favourite spots in which to relax! I am so proud of them both and love them beyond words – they have enriched my life and I feel so grateful to Holly Hedge for bringing us together.